Response Time 3 Hours , Response Rate 100%
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a culturally rich and spiritually significant adventure into one of Nepal’s most secluded Himalayan valleys. Located in the restricted Manaslu region, Tsum Valley offers authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture, dramatic mountain scenery, and peaceful trails far from crowded trekking routes.
This journey combines sacred monasteries, traditional mountain villages, and panoramic Himalayan views, making it ideal for travelers seeking both cultural immersion and natural beauty. Operated by Sole Encounters Adventures, a government registered trekking company in Nepal affiliated with TAAN, NMA, and the Nepal Tourism Board, the trek is professionally managed with strong safety standards and experienced local guides.
Kathmandu → Machhakhola → Jagat → Philim → Chumling → Chhokangparo → Nile → Mu Gompa → Chhokangparo → Jagat → Machhakhola → Kathmandu
This carefully designed route allows gradual altitude gain, proper acclimatization, and full exploration of the sacred upper Tsum Valley before returning along the same scenic trail.
Tsum Valley is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. Major highlights include Mu Gompa at 3,700 meters, the largest monastery in the valley, and Rachen Gompa, an important nunnery. Mani walls, chortens, prayer flags, and traditional stone houses reflect centuries of preserved Himalayan culture.
The valley is also associated with Milarepa, the revered Buddhist saint whose meditation cave remains an important spiritual site.
Trekkers enjoy spectacular views of Ganesh Himal and surrounding snow capped peaks. The landscape transitions from river gorges along the Budhi Gandaki River to forested hills and high alpine valleys near Mu Gompa.
Unlike commercial trekking routes, Tsum Valley remains quiet and culturally intact. The restricted area status helps preserve its authenticity and traditional way of life.
The Tsum Valley Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. Trekkers walk approximately 5 to 7 hours per day on varied terrain, including stone steps, forest trails, suspension bridges, and mountain paths.
With proper pacing and gradual ascent, the itinerary supports safe acclimatization and minimizes altitude related risks.
The journey begins with a scenic overland drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola, approximately 160 to 170 kilometers, taking around 8 to 9 hours. The drive follows the Budhi Gandaki River into the Himalayan foothills.
After completing the valley exploration, you return to Machhakhola and drive back to Kathmandu, concluding the trek.
As Tsum Valley is a restricted region, special permits are required:
Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
Sole Encounters Adventures arranges all necessary permits, transportation, teahouse accommodation, licensed guides, porter services, and meals during trekking days.
Our guides are trained in first aid and altitude awareness, and reliable communication systems are maintained for safety support throughout the trek.
The best seasons for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek are:
Spring, March to May
Autumn, September to December
During these months, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and mountain visibility is excellent.
Sole Encounters Adventures is a certified and trusted trekking company in Nepal. Our affiliations with TAAN, NMA, and the Nepal Tourism Board confirm compliance with national safety and tourism standards.
We offer transparent pricing, personalized service, ethical porter support, and strong local expertise. In addition to the Tsum Valley Trek, we operate other popular Himalayan journeys including the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes, and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Experience sacred monasteries, preserved mountain culture, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery on this unique 13 day adventure.
For inquiries and bookings:
Website: www.soleencounterstrek.com
Email: info@soleencounterstrek.com
WhatsApp: +9779808979061
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team welcomes you and transfers you to your hotel. After check in, we conduct a detailed trek briefing covering permits, route overview, altitude awareness, and safety preparation. In the evening, you may explore Thamel’s lively streets and enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine
Today combines cultural exploration and final trek preparation. You may visit major heritage sites such as Boudhanath Stupa or Swayambhunath Temple. Walking is light on paved city streets and temple steps. This day offers a meaningful introduction to Nepal’s spiritual culture before heading into the remote mountains.
A scenic drive along the Budhi Gandaki River takes you through terraced farmland, waterfalls, and hillside villages. Road conditions vary from smooth highways to rugged mountain sections. This transition from city life to rural Himalayan landscapes is the beginning of your mountain journey.
Your trekking journey officially begins. The trail includes gentle uphill sections, riverbank flats, suspension bridges, and stone staircases. Jagat welcomes you as the entry point of the Manaslu region, marking your first true immersion into mountain culture.
Today involves steady uphill walking through forested trails with occasional flat sections. As you gain altitude, mountain views become more impressive. Reaching Lokpa feels rewarding as you officially enter the Tsum Valley route.
The trail descends through forests before gradually climbing along the Siyar River. Suspension bridges and narrow valley paths create a sense of adventure. Chumling offers stunning views of Ganesh Himal and traditional stone houses.
This is one of the first days where the true goal of the journey begins to feel within reach. The landscape opens into wide alpine valleys with panoramic Himalayan views. The steady uphill walk is balanced by scenic flat sections across high terrain.
Arriving at Rachen Gompa, surrounded by mountains and prayer flags, evokes a powerful sense of achievement and spiritual calm. You are now in Upper Tsum Valley, the cultural heart of the region. Many trekkers describe this as the first deeply emotional moment of the trek.
This day fulfills the central goal of the entire journey. The trail gradually ascends through open alpine landscapes with expansive views stretching across the valley. The shorter hiking hours allow you to fully absorb the environment.
Reaching Mu Gompa, the highest and most significant monastery in Tsum Valley, is the most exciting and rewarding moment of the trek. The peaceful silence, vast mountain scenery, and spiritual presence create a truly unforgettable experience. This is the pinnacle of the adventure, where cultural depth and natural beauty merge completely.
Descending from the high valley, you retrace your steps through scenic landscapes. The day includes longer downhill sections, moderate flat paths, and occasional short climbs. The return journey allows you to enjoy the valley from a new perspective.
The trail continues with gradual downhill walking along forest paths and riverside sections. The mix of stone steps, suspension bridges, and cultivated terraces makes the walk varied and engaging.
This day features mostly downhill terrain with some short uphill stretches and flat river valley walking. Waterfalls, traditional villages, and warm lower altitude weather make this a relaxed and pleasant day.
After breakfast, we drive back to Kathmandu following the scenic river valley. In the evening, you can celebrate the completion of your trek with a farewell dinner or explore Thamel for souvenirs.
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Your Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek concludes with the satisfaction of reaching a sacred Himalayan destination and completing a culturally transformative journey.
All airport pick up and drop off services in Kathmandu
Ground transportation from Kathmandu to Machhakhola and return by private or shared vehicle
3 nights hotel stay in Kathmandu with breakfast included
Comfortable tourist standard hotel in a convenient location
Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
All necessary permits for the restricted Manaslu Tsum Valley region are arranged in advance by our team.
Government certified English speaking trekking guide
One porter for every two trekkers
Guide and porter insurance, meals, accommodation, and salary included
Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on twin sharing basis
Simple mountain lodges offering clean rooms and local hospitality
Sleeping bag provided for use during the trek if needed
Company cape or rain poncho provided for protection during rain or wind
Duffle bag for carrying trekking gear
Welcome , farewell Dinner in Kathmandu
Farewell dinner after successful trek completion & 3 Meals on Trek
Achievement certificate upon completion
Free information and support before arrival, during the trek, and after completion
Emergency coordination assistance if required
Complete logistical support throughout the journey
International flight tickets
Travel insurance with medical and emergency evacuation coverage
Nepal entry visa fee, approximately USD 40 for 30 days
Personal trekking equipment such as boots, down jackets, gloves, and trekking poles
Personal expenses including snacks, drinks, laundry, and souvenirs
Electronic device charging, Wi Fi, and hot showers during the trek
Optional activities in Kathmandu
Extra hotel nights due to early arrival, late departure, or itinerary changes
Tipping for guide and porter is not included. Tipping is customary in Nepal and generally ranges between 15 percent to 20 percent of the total trip cost, depending on your satisfaction with the service.
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is a 13 day cultural and Himalayan trekking adventure in the restricted Manaslu region of Nepal. The trek explores the hidden Tsum Valley, known for its preserved Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, and spectacular mountain scenery.
This trek is considered moderate in difficulty. Trekkers walk approximately 5 to 7 hours per day on mixed terrain including uphill climbs, downhill descents, forest trails, stone staircases, suspension bridges, and river valley paths. A good level of fitness is recommended, but no technical mountaineering skills are required.
The highest point is Mu Gompa at 3,610 meters / 11,844 feet. Since the trek remains below 4,000 meters, altitude risk is manageable with proper acclimatization and pacing.
Yes. Tsum Valley is a restricted area in Nepal. You need:
Tsum Valley Restricted Area Permit
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
These permits must be arranged through a registered trekking company in Nepal.
Yes. Since Tsum Valley is a restricted region, trekking with a licensed guide through a government registered trekking agency is compulsory.
Accommodation during the trek is in basic teahouses on a twin sharing basis. Rooms are simple but clean. In Kathmandu, you stay in a comfortable hotel with breakfast included.
The package generally includes airport transfers, hotel stays in Kathmandu with breakfast, all necessary trekking permits, certified guide and porter services, teahouse accommodation, sleeping bag if needed, duffle bag, company rain cape, welcome and farewell dinner, and emergency support coordination.
The best seasons are spring from March to May and autumn from September to December. During these months, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are at their besta
This trek offers a rare combination of spiritual depth, preserved Tibetan culture, and dramatic Himalayan landscapes. Reaching Mu Gompa in Upper Tsum Valley is the most fulfilling highlight, offering breathtaking scenery and a peaceful monastery atmosphere.
The standard itinerary is 13 days, including arrival and departure days in Kathmandu, travel to Machhakhola, and full exploration of Upper Tsum Valley.
Yes. Travel insurance with medical and emergency evacuation coverage is strongly recommended for safety during the trek.
Proper preparation is essential for a safe and comfortable Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. Below you will find a complete packing checklist along with practical travel information about visas, money exchange, storage facilities, and other key details for trekking in Nepal.
Weather conditions range from warm river valleys to cold alpine areas near Mu Gompa at 3,610 meters. Layering is strongly recommended.
Lightweight trekking pants
Moisture wicking T shirts and long sleeved shirts
Fleece or softshell jacket
Down jacket for cold mornings and evenings
Waterproof and breathable outer shell jacket
Waterproof trekking pants
Thermal base layers
Warm hat and gloves
Sun hat or cap
Neck gaiter or scarf
Wool or synthetic hiking socks
Comfortable underwear
Sturdy trekking boots with ankle support
Trekking socks
Optional gaiters for dusty or muddy trails
Well broken in boots are important for long uphill and downhill walking days.
Daypack 30 to 40 liters
Rain cover or dry bag
Trekking poles
Headlamp with spare batteries
Sunglasses with UV protection
Reusable water bottles, minimum 2 liters
Energy snacks
Personal toiletries
Personal medications
Sunscreen and lip balm
Power bank
Camera and spare memory cards
Sleeping bag rated for minus 10°C to minus 15°C
Sleeping pad for added comfort
Sleeping bags can be provided by the company if required.
You will stay in basic teahouses during trekking days on a twin sharing basis. Rooms are simple but clean, with shared bathrooms in most locations.
In Kathmandu, accommodation is provided in a comfortable hotel with breakfast included.
Teahouses serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals typically include dal bhat, rice, noodles, soups, potatoes, eggs, vegetables, and some simple Western options. Food is freshly prepared and suitable for high energy trekking days.
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is moderate in difficulty. Expect 5 to 7 hours of walking daily with a mix of uphill climbs, downhill sections, and flat river valley trails.
It is strongly recommended to begin physical preparation at least 2 to 3 months before coming to Nepal. Hiking, stair climbing, cycling, and cardio exercises will improve endurance and comfort during the trek.
Most nationalities can obtain a Nepal visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The standard tourist visa fee is USD 40 for 30 days.
You can find official visa information here:
https://www.immigration.gov.np
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and bring passport sized photos if possible.
ATMs and money exchange services are widely available in Kathmandu, especially in Thamel. It is recommended to exchange currency and withdraw sufficient Nepalese Rupees before starting the trek.
During the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, there are no reliable ATM facilities. Therefore, carry enough Nepalese Rupees for personal expenses such as drinks, Wi Fi, hot showers, charging devices, and snacks.
It is also advisable to carry a small amount of US Dollars in case of emergency or unexpected expenses.
Additional costs may include beverages, Wi Fi, hot showers, battery charging, laundry, and souvenirs. These services are available at extra cost in most teahouses.
Electricity is available in most villages, but charging devices may require a small fee. Carrying a power bank is highly recommended.
Drinking water is available at teahouses. You can purchase boiled water or use water purification tablets or filters.
Comprehensive travel insurance that covers high altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation is mandatory for this trek.
You can store extra luggage in your hotel in Kathmandu free of cost during the trek. After completing the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, you can collect your stored items upon return to the same hotel.
We promote responsible and sustainable trekking practices. Please minimize plastic waste, carry reusable bottles, respect local customs, and avoid littering in the mountains.
Tsum Valley is rich in Tibetan Buddhist heritage. You will see ancient monasteries such as Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, prayer flags, mani walls, and traditional stone houses.
The Tsumba people maintain farming traditions, yak herding, and spiritual rituals. The valley offers dramatic landscapes including deep gorges, pine forests, terraced farmland, and high alpine meadows.
The Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek is not only a mountain adventure but also a deep cultural and spiritual experience in one of Nepal’s most preserved Himalayan regions.
Carrying a small personal medical kit is highly recommended for the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek. While your guide carries a basic first aid kit, you should bring your own essential medicines. Always consult your doctor before traveling to high altitude areas.
Diamox for altitude prevention if prescribed
Paracetamol or Ibuprofen for headache and body pain
Anti nausea tablets
Oral rehydration salts
Cold and flu tablets
Throat lozenges
Antihistamine for allergies
Anti diarrhea tablets
Probiotics
Antacid tablets
Bandages and blister care
Antiseptic cream
Medical tape and gauze
Pain relief spray or gel
Regular prescription medicines with extra supply
Copy of prescriptions
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
Water purification tablets
The maximum altitude of the trek is 3,610 meters at Mu Gompa. Walk steadily, stay hydrated, and inform your guide if you feel unwell.
If you plan to stay extra days in Kathmandu before or after the trek, we are happy to assist you. We can arrange hotel bookings, sightseeing tours, cultural experiences, mountain flights, or short hiking trips.
If you need any additional activities or support at any time, simply ask us. Our team is always happy to help and provide guidance free of cost to make your Nepal trip smooth and enjoyable.
Response Time 3 Hours , Response Rate 100%
5 Reviews
© 2011 - 2026 All rights reserved. Sole Encounters Trekking Pvt. Ltd.
Sarah Mitchell
AustraliaA Truly Spiritual Himalayan Journey
18th February, 2026
Exploring Upper Tsum Valley and reaching Mu Gompa was the most meaningful part of my Nepal trip. Our guide, Lakpa Sherpa, explained the history of Rachen Gompa and local Tibetan Buddhist culture with great knowledge. Porter Nima was supportive and always positive. Sole Encounters Adventures handled permits, accommodation, and logistics perfectly. I felt safe, well guided, and deeply connected to the region.
Daniel Fischer
AustriaPeaceful Trails and Authentic Culture
14th October, 2025
The landscapes of Tsum Valley were quiet and untouched, far from busy trekking routes. Our guide, Pemba Tamang, had excellent knowledge of the region’s geography and traditions. Porter Dorje worked incredibly hard and was very kind. The company organized all transport and restricted permits smoothly. It was a professionally managed and rewarding trekking experience.
Olivia Chen
AustraliaReaching Mu Gompa Was Unforgettable
16th September, 2025
Standing at Mu Gompa at 3,610 meters was the highlight of my journey. Guide Sonam Sherpa was attentive to our health and shared valuable insight about local monasteries. Porter Mingma was strong and cheerful every day. From Kathmandu hotel to mountain teahouses, everything was well arranged. Sole Encounters Adventures made the entire trek stress free and memorable.
Michael Rodriguez,
United StatesA Perfect Restricted Area Trek Experience
22nd May, 2025
This trek offered deep cultural immersion and breathtaking scenery. Our guide, Tashi Gurung, shared stories about Milarepa and the sacred heritage of Tsum Valley. Porter Pasang handled luggage professionally and reliably. The company managed communication, permits, and meals efficiently. I always felt supported and confident throughout the journey.
Isabella Rose Roberts
AustraliaScenic Beauty and Professional Organization
18th January, 2026
The Budhi Gandaki River valley and Upper Tsum landscapes were spectacular. Guide Phurba Sherpa maintained a steady pace and ensured proper acclimatization. Porter Lhakpa was friendly and dependable. Sole Encounters Adventures organized airport transfers, permits, and accommodation flawlessly. The team’s professionalism and care made this trek exceptional.